Part 3: The weather was great again on Tuesday and Doug and Gav were keen to make the most of it so we headed out for a longer ride this time. The planned route was out to Torver and down to High Nibthwaite then south to Spark Bridge and across to Bouth before heading north to Force Forge, Satterthwaite, Grizedale visitor centre, |Moor Top, High Cross and back down into Coniston.
Although it was a nice sunny day there was a bit of a wind which was annoying but didn't seem to slow Doug and Gav very much. There were quite a few cyclists out this time which was nice and most seemed pretty friendly. Despite this being the third ride in as many days, we managed the hills okay as far as Spark Bridge and particularly enjoyed the couple of fast downhill sections they led to. I recorded 29mph down one of them
but I know Doug and Gav were both faster.
By the time we reached Bouth the hill climbs were getting a bit slower and a pause for a bite to eat was called for. This section of the national park is off the usual tourist trail but is great cycling country (in my opinion - other opinions are available from our group
) if you want to get away from the crowds.
The climb past Force Forge was the usual slow plod that we always do and the sight of Satterthwaite was very welcome, especially as there is a nice pub here (The Eagles Head - walkers, muddy cyclists and muddy dogs welcome according to the "A" board outside). A pint each and some chips revived our spirits and we continued to the visitor centre - which was closed. Just as well we were aiming for the pub rather than the cafe.
The climb to Moor Top is a long drag but on this ascent, Doug (who'd been flagging on most of the hills so far) found his second wind, overtaking Gav.
I'd promised an easier, if not as direct, route than we usually use to High Cross but the way we went didn't seem to meet with a lot of approval. Looking at the map I'm certain that it involves less climbing, but I did take a wrong turn so it was a bit further than intended.
The views over Coniston and the fells were fantastic though.
After finally reaching High Cross it was time for the drop into Coniston using the back road (same way we climbed the hill yesterday). Last time Doug and Gav descended this way, Doug got his bike into a tank-slapper and came off at about 25mph
(fortunately suffering nothing worse than bruising and bad gravel rash). We were therefore a little more cautious this time and everyone made it down safe.
Today we had no option but to use the road into town as the cycle path was closed due to one of the bridges having no deck. It was fine when we left it, honest.
Another stop at the Bluebird Cafe was very nice before heading back to the house.
26.3 miles this time with an 8.8 mph average.
The view from the house before we set out. Another lovely day.
By the side of Coniston with Peel Island (AKA Wildcat Island from Swallows and Amazons) in shot.
We've just passed Lowick Bridge on the way to Spark Bridge.
On the lanes between Bouth and Force Forge.
Grizedale, by the visitor centre.
Up in the forest now and the scenery is epic.
I've dragged them up a few big climbs today but there are still smiles - can't have been as bad as all that.
Looking at Coniston Old Man from one of the viewpoints. The village is just visible at the foot of the mountain.
I had to get a shot of my bike with that scenery.
One more ride left to describe which will follow shortly.
It was the fulfilment of a long held ambition. I've been visiting the area for years and have driven over there countless times but riding it was really special (as well as really hard work 
).
). Second part coming up shortly.
but it spoiled the mood slightly). At the next gate another walker said "you won't stay that clean for long", which we took as being a bit of banter - we realised our mistake quarter of a mile further on when someone warned us that they'd sunk to their shins in a harmless looking muddy patch. Not being able to go round due to the boggy ground I had to go for it and found that they weren't exaggerating 
